Jeongamsa Temple淨巖寺

According to legend, the Seomano Pagoda of Jeongamsa Temple originates from the story that Jangja Yulsa, a monk from Silla, received agate stones from the Dragon King of the West Sea on his way back from Tang China and used them to build the pagoda. The name 'Seomano' means blue agate stones retrieved from the water. The rocks constituting the pagoda are not actually agate but dolomite (a calcium and magnesium carbonate mineral), and it appears that the blue stones were symbolically perceived as agate during the transmission process. This can be described as a unique cultural heritage site where historical reality and mythical imagination are interwoven. This seven-story brick-style stone pagoda, approximately 9m high and 3.04m wide, is exceptionally rare because its finial and wind chimes are preserved in near-original condition, and its artistic value is also highly esteemed. Brick-style stone pagodas are less sturdy than typical stone pagodas, leading to several rounds of repairs, and the current Seomano Pagoda was reconstructed during the Goryeo Dynasty. During dismantling and repair work in 1972, sarira reliquaries containing Buddha's relics and ancient documents were discovered, re-illuminating its historical and religious significance. Recognizing its historical, artistic, and spiritual value, it was elevated to National Treasure status in 2020.